SkillsUSA (CTSO)

SkillsUSA is a United States career and technical student organization serving more than 395,000 high school, college and middle school students and professional members enrolled in training programs in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including health occupations.

Originally founded in 1965 as the “Vocational Industrial Clubs of America Inc.” (VICA) was founded by students and teachers who were serious about their professions and saw the need for more training in the areas of leadership to complement their chosen vocation. In Nashville, Tenn., 14 states were represented, as VICA chose its name, colors, motto, purposes and goals.

In 1999 VICA officially changed to SkillsUSA–VICA on July 4, 1999, at the National Leadership and Skills Conference. That same year students competing in the WorldSkills Competition in Montreal placed higher than ever before.